Bali is an Indonesian island located between Java and Lombok. Separated from these by the Bali Strait (to the west) and the Lombok Strait (to the east), the Island of the Gods spans 5,780 km²... Landscapes, endemic fauna and flora, must-see Balinese towns, culture and trekking in volcanic zones and snorkeling : join us for a total immersion in one of Indonesia's most sought-after destinations!

1. Diverse landscapes: volcanoes, jungle, beaches and rice fields

Bali boasts an eclectic relief, with nearly 500 volcanoes (of which 126 are active), dozens of paradisiacal beaches and thousands of hectares of rice paddies and lush forests. The result? The Island of the Gods is a true Eden for nature lovers!

Volcanic chains

Located in the "Ring of Fire", the island of Bali is home to two of the most beautiful volcanoes in Indonesia : Mount Batur and Mount Agung, renowned for their hiking trails and explosive beauty (see the trekking section...).

A lush jungle

Bali also captivates with its tropical forests and verdant landscapes. Between terraced rice paddies, lush valleys and hidden waterfalls: the island offers a unique natural setting. Perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure, Bali reveals authentic and preserved natural beauty.

Paradisiacal beaches with white… and black sand!

Bali's beaches offer an idyllic setting, with crystal-clear waters and colorful reefs (ideal for diving and snorkeling). In the north of the island? You'll find black sand beaches – their color a result of volcanic activity!

Terraced rice paddies

The terraced rice paddies of Bali, particularly in the Tegallalang and Jatiluwih valleys, form emblematic landscapes. Sculpted along hillsides, they offer spectacular views of verdant expanses, where rice cultivation blends harmoniously with the surrounding nature!

More than a tourist asset, Bali's rice paddies are also one of the island's main economic resources, alongside fishing and craftsmanship, including wood carving.

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2. Exceptional biodiversity

Flora

The island is home to exceptional flora, comprising numerous plant species (such as bamboo and the Banyan – a sacred tree in Indonesia), as well as tropical plants (hibiscus, jasmine, etc.). This verdant nature serves as a natural habitat for many animals, attracted by these dense and lush landscapes, particularly birds, with nearly 300 ornithological species present on the island, including the famous Bali starling.

Fauna

During a trek or forest walk, you'll also have the chance to admire hundreds of macaques roaming freely in the monkey forest of Ubud ! Due to its geographical position and kilometers of coastline, Bali is home to rich aquatic fauna...

During a diving session, you'll encounter manta rays – particularly in the waters of Nusa Penida, a small island located about 30 minutes by ferry from Bali – as well as frogfish and leafy sea dragons (named for their extreme delicacy). An unforgettable experience!

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3. Traditional and modern towns

Denpasar

Located in southern Bali, Denpasar is the largest city on the island, with over 3.8 million inhabitants. It is the main junction hub for travel within the island.

Since its economic boom in the early 1960s, Denpasar has seen luxury boutiques and shopping centers flourish: if you're looking to shop in Bali, this city is ideal, offering attractive prices. Why? Because products are shipped from here to the rest of the island.

The city is also home to the Museum Negeri Provinsi Bali – the island's art and history museum, where you can see traditional costumes – as well as the ancient Pura Blanjong temple.

Ubud

The primary cultural and artistic center of the island, the town of Ubud is a must-see stop in Bali! In addition to its location in a particularly beautiful area, on the island's highlands, Ubud is dotted with art galleries and small artisanal shops (where you'll find beautiful fabrics), as well as numerous quaint cafés… THE place to find authentic souvenirs. Finally, don't leave without visiting the stunning Pura Dalem Temple – with its feminine sculptures.

Kuta

About 30 minutes' drive south of Denpasar, you'll find Kuta (one of the most touristy towns on the island). With its numerous hotels, bars and beach resorts, it's a very lively place, also popular with surfers due to its many surf spots.

Far from being the most authentic place in Bali, the town nevertheless deserves a quick stop – at the end of your Bali trip, for example, since it's located near Ngurah Rai International Airport.

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4. Balinese culture

Balinese culture is an important aspect of a stopover in Bali. Religion, customs and traditions, gastronomy: by observing local life, you'll discover another facet of the island – and the extreme kindness of its inhabitants!

A tip? For a true immersion in traditional culture (away from mass tourism), head inland…

Religion and temples

The island of Bali is Hindu in religion. This is a distinctive feature, as the rest of Indonesia is predominantly Muslim.

Balinese people live their faith daily. Indeed, major life events, such as weddings, births and deaths, are celebrated through religious ceremonies, rituals or offerings – dedicated to deities.

The Island of the Gods owes its nickname to its numerous religious buildings! Visiting temples offers a wonderful glimpse into the importance Balinese people place on their beliefs and spiritual quest.

Balinese cuisine

From nasi goreng (emblematic fried rice) to mie goreng (traditional noodles) through vegetarian dishes (like gado-gado) : Balinese cuisine offers a festival of flavors and spices! Moreover, due to the Hindu religion of Bali, its traditional dishes differ significantly from the rest of the country – with, for example, the emblematic roasted suckling pig (babi guling), typical of Bali.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the best time to visit Bali?

The island of Bali is governed by two seasons: the dry season (May to October) and the rainy season (November to April). The dry season is preferable to enjoy pleasant temperatures (29°C on average). June is also a good period, with verdant landscapes just after the monsoon, and more attractive prices than the summer season from July to August.

Is it inadvisable to travel to Bali?

The level of safety is generally good in Indonesia, and it is not inadvisable to visit Bali! However, to prevent theft, once there, avoid ostentatious displays of wealth, such as jewelry or watches. Similarly, remain vigilant when paying by credit card, and don't let your card out of your sight. Another point to check before traveling to Bali is volcanic activity! To do this, consult the website of the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, regularly updated.

What is the cost of living in Bali?

The cost of living in Bali is much cheaper than in France (between -40 and 50%, according to statistics). Overall, a tourist spends an average of €23/day (standard accommodation, 3 meals and travel). Of course, this amount varies depending on hotel categories and towns (more or less expensive, depending on their tourist flow).

Audrey Denjean